Israel Breaks Silence: Sends Patriot Missiles to Ukraine

After extensive speculation and criticism, Israel has officially confirmed that the country has delivered Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine. The confirmation comes from Israel’s ambassador to Ukraine, Mykhailo Brodsky, who revealed the previously undisclosed military aid during an interview with the Ukrainian media project In Bed.

“We have agreed to transfer them to Ukraine. Unfortunately, it was not widely publicized. But when people say that Israel has not provided military assistance, that’s not true,” Brodsky stated.

Israel’s contribution was facilitated through American intermediation. As early as the beginning of 2024, there were reports of flights with U.S. C-17 transport planes from Israel to Poland, carrying Patriot missiles. The missiles originated from an American stockpile in Israel and were forwarded to Ukraine via Poland.

From Decommissioned Batteries to Frontline Weapons

The Patriot systems now ending up in Ukraine were phased out by the Israeli military in April 2024. They were replaced by newer Israeli-developed systems like David’s Sling and Iron Dome, which have proven more effective against modern threats.

The transferred units likely include the upgraded PAC-2 Yahalom version, which can also fire PAC-3 missiles with increased capability against ballistic threats.

The systems have a long history in Israel but have only seen combat a handful of times—first in 2014 against a Hamas drone, and later against Syrian fighter jets, among others.

A Necessary Reinforcement of Ukraine’s Air Defense

In light of the intense Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure and cities, Ukraine has long requested reinforcements for its air defense. Israel’s decision to contribute Patriot systems could prove crucial.

At the same time, analysts point out that the cooperation between Israel, the U.S., and Ukraine represents a significant shift in Israel’s previously cautious stance on direct military assistance to Ukraine.

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